Chrysler Aspen
A Monster SUV With Manners |
By Rick Newman
|
G forces: The standard engine is a 235-horsepower V-8, with the optional 330-horsepower "Hemi" V-8 available on the lower trim line and standard on the upper. I drove the Hemi, which is potent and smooth and does not feel like excessive muscle, since this is a heavy truck. Highway ride is soothing. And the Aspen corners well for a monster truck, as long as you ease it along. Each of two trim lines comes with four-wheel drive as an option.
Gizmology: Chrysler's interiors are tasteful these days, and the Aspen benefits from a clean dashboard design and clever interior engineering. Storage spaces are ample, and well concealed. Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls are standard, and I especially like the way Chrysler hides them on the back of the steering-wheel spokes, right where your fingers naturally rest. There's also a "vehicle information center" that displays info like gas mileage and lets you set some of the electronic systems to meet your personal preferences.
Kidmarks: The folding third-row seat is standard, which allows this refined bruiser to hold seven comfortably. And the second-row seat flips back easily, with two simple motions, making it easy to climb into the back. There's no center armrest on the base model, but kids in the back will find cupholders on the floor and in the doors. And they'll love the height, even if it's a high climb for little legs.
Hot or not: Not. The Aspen is svelte and handsome, but let's face it: Big is out.
Pain at the pump: Considerable. Mileage ranges from 14 mpg/city to 20 mpg/highway. Details: www.fueleconomy.gov
Crash course: Earns 10 stars out of 10 on the government's frontal crash-test rating. Not yet rated for side-impact crashes. Rollover resistance rating is 3/5 for two-wheel drive models, and 4/5 for four-wheel drive. More info: www.safercar.gov
Standard safety gear: Advanced frontal air bags, side-curtain air bags for all three rows, stability control, antilock brakes, traction control.
Price points: Base prices range from $31,490 to $39,255. Price as tested: $43,395 (Prices include delivery fees.)
More info: www.chrysler.com
|
Model year tested: 2007
It wasn't long ago that the debut of a new SUV drew buyers to showrooms and got neighbors talking. Now it's little cars that are getting the buzz, while big SUVs pile up on dealer lots.
Which means it sure is a lousy time to pull the wraps off an SUV that was meant to be a big moneymaker. The Aspen must have sounded like a great idea when it was conceived two or three years ago: Take the Durango chassis, from Chrysler's sister company Dodge, dress it up with styling cues borrowed from the hulking, popular 300 sedan, and add just enough refinement to call it a luxury SUV. And name it after a place where you can be rich and rugged all at once.
Chrysler has done all that nicely. The Aspen is a big, spacious utility with a premium ride, cushy appointments, lots of interior flexibility, and real off-road chops if you pay up for four-wheel drive. A standard third-row seat ensures seating for seven, and it's a real seven: The third row is big enough for teenagers or even two tolerant adults. The interior is tasteful and comfy, with all the basics and sensible extras like a two-prong electrical outlet for electronic games or other appliances, a computerized display with vehicle info, and assist handles to help people climbing into the second or third row.
Chrysler has also pledged to include some key safety gear on all of its SUVs, including stability control, antilock brakes, and side-curtain air bags, which give the Aspen the credibility it needs as a family truckster. And you can trick out this land yacht for whatever manner of luxury or activity suits you, provided $35,000 or $40,000 is in the family budget. A luxury package adds leather upholstery, heated seats, and thumping, wraparound sound. The available entertainment center includes a 7-inch screen and wireless headphones. And of course there's the optional 330-horsepower Hemi V-8 engine, helpful for towing a boat or just wowing the neighbors with your chutzpah. Just don't show them your gas bills.
 In the market for a new car? Use our auto search for more information.
Is there a car you would like us to review? Send your suggestion to test-track@usnews.com.
Return to the auto page to view more reviews.
|
